I went through the evolution study.  I got selected for the online modules.  Finished now.  Got me in real fast after my doctor's referral.

Just wanted to know if anybody else was involved in the Evolution Study.

Thanks Blushalot , I have a appointment in the bariatric clinic next month I am positive looking into this I believe it will help speed up my process for knee surgery. Just had a meeting with my knee surgeons if i get this surgery instead for waiting 20 years for a knee replacement it will be 7-8 years so crossing fingers. Thanks for the tips :)

I had my first appt in July of 2009 and did a 9 month program through the clinic. I was approved for surgery in April of 2010 and had surgery in September of 2010, I was told it would be probably November but got in on a cancellation as I didnt have to do a liquid diet. I had 5 days notice for surgery. It was by far the best thing I have ever done for myself.

Hi Andrew. I didn't go through the Red Deer clinic but the Edmonton Bariatric clinic. I will be 4 years out from Gastric Sleeve surgery in september. I remember being on the waiting list and finding out when my first appointment would be. There was lots of anexity/excitement surronding those first appointments but I was so glad to be able to be a part of the clinic.

Unlike you I didn't really know why I had weight issues and I didn't join the clinic wanting weight loss surgery. I wanted to know why I was obese and no matter what I did I could lose the weight. The clinic helped me with that and after several months of appointments I decided on surgery with the guidance of the clinic.

Some thing you can do now to prepare you for your appointments is start a food tracking journal. You can use an app or program like My fitness pal, I really like that one. Also track the reasons why you eat such as real hungery, stress, bordom. Don't have any liquids 30 minutes before or after you eat. Try cutting out any high calorie liquid drinks you are consuming, like alcohol, pop, juices. Stick to water flavored with liquid drops, lemon or crystal light. Giving up pop even if it's diet will help you and for my program it was of upmost importance that you didn't drink anything carbonated before or after surgery. In my program they also tryed to cut of fast food. They recommended trying to get it down to once a week as take out is high fat, high sodium and calories. Lower carbs helps too, as after surgery carbs don't sit well for most and it's more important to get your protein in.

I wasn't forthcoming to my family and friends about my surgery as I didn't want any judgement passed. Although if you have a supportive family and circle I would recommend leaning on them to help you get to the surgery. I leaned on the few peoole I met through the clinic who have now become amazing friends.

I wish you luck and know that you have already made one of the biggest steps by being referred to the clinic and getting that first appointment. Stay confident, it'll all work out the way it's suppose too.